Differences between Parallel Circuit and Series Circuit
Contents
Parallel Circuit vs. Series Circuit[edit]
In electronics, a series circuit is one where components are connected end-to-end, creating a single path for the current to flow.[1][2] A parallel circuit provides multiple paths for the current.[1][3] Household electrical wiring is a common application of parallel circuits, allowing appliances to operate independently.[4][5] Older decorative string lights, where one failed bulb would cause the entire string to go out, are an example of a series circuit.[1][2]
The key differences relate to how voltage, current, and resistance behave in each configuration. In a series circuit, the current is the same through all components, while the total voltage from the source is divided among them. Conversely, in a parallel circuit, the voltage across each component is the same, while the total current from the source is split among the different branches.
If a component in a series circuit fails, it creates an open circuit, and the entire pathway is interrupted.[1] In a parallel circuit, if a component in one branch fails, the other branches remain operational.[1][3]
Comparison Table[edit]
| Category | Series Circuit | Parallel Circuit |
|---|---|---|
| Current Path | A single path for current to flow.[1] | Multiple paths or branches for current.[3] |
| Current | The current is the same through every component. | The total current from the source is the sum of the currents in each branch. |
| Voltage | The total source voltage is divided among the components. | The voltage is the same across each component. |
| Total Resistance | The sum of the individual resistances (RTotal = R1 + R2 + ...). | The reciprocal of the sum of the reciprocals of individual resistances (1/RTotal = 1/R1 + 1/R2 + ...).[3] The total resistance is always less than the smallest individual resistance. |
| Component Failure | A break anywhere in the circuit stops the flow of current entirely.[1] | A break in one branch does not stop current flow in the other branches.[3][4] |
| Component Addition | Adding more components increases the total resistance and decreases the current. | Adding more components in parallel decreases the total resistance and increases the total current. |
| Common Applications | Fuses, switches, and older holiday lights. | Household wiring, automotive electrical systems, and industrial applications.[4] |
Resistance Calculation[edit]
To find the total resistance in a series circuit, the resistances of all components are added together. For example, if a 2 Ω, a 5 Ω, and a 7 Ω resistor are in series, the total resistance is 14 Ω.
For a parallel circuit, the total resistance is found by adding the reciprocals of the individual resistances and then taking the reciprocal of that sum. The total resistance in a parallel configuration will always be lower than the value of the smallest resistor in the circuit.
Practical Implications[edit]
The characteristics of parallel circuits make them suitable for residential wiring. Each light and outlet in a home is a separate branch, which allows them to be switched on and off independently without affecting the others. This[5] setup ensures that each appliance receives the same standard voltage.
Series circuits are useful in applications where current control or voltage division is needed. For instance, fuses and circuit breakers are placed in series with a device to protect it from excessive current; if the current becomes too high, the fuse will blow and break the single path, stopping the current flow to the protected device.
References[edit]
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5 1.6 "wikipedia.org". Retrieved October 26, 2025.
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 "byjus.com". Retrieved October 26, 2025.
- ↑ 3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 "keysight.com". Retrieved October 26, 2025.
- ↑ 4.0 4.1 4.2 "etcourse.com". Retrieved October 26, 2025.
- ↑ 5.0 5.1 "thespruce.com". Retrieved October 26, 2025.
